The activities of this Chair are aimed at improving the understanding of the European Union and the European integration process, emphasising the development of a clear political dimension, both internally and externally. This activities aim to raise public awareness of the actions that the EU carries out for social groups and individuals and, at the same time, to promote the development of knowledge and new perspectives that serve to elaborate policies at EU level (in the European multilevel framework). This Project is clearly designed to promote the dissemination of European issues and policies among our students, citizens and social groups in general. In particular, it aims to examine issues related to the institutional system (parliamentary system, democracy, fundamental rights and freedoms, public administration and procedures, public services, etc.) and public policies in the context of digitalisation.

Digital technologies are affecting both people’s daily lives and political institutions, and ultimately society as a whole. Digitalisation can bring benefits for all, but it entails risks of various kinds. It can undoubtedly create new opportunities for individuals or European businesses. In this sense, the European Commission, aware of its relevance, has committed itself to making the current decade Europe’s “Digital Decade”.

However, the political, economic and social implications of digitalisation are obvious and wide-ranging. Thus, the EU is seeking to have the capacity to steer the course of digitisation, i.e. to shape European digital sovereignty in order to define its own digitisation model. In this sense, the EU will boost Europeans’ digital skills and guarantee their fundamental rights and freedoms in the face of potential threats. It must also address the development and preservation of digital technologies that are critical in the public and private sectors in the global context.

The impact of digital transformations on principles and values, political institutions, public administrations, public services, public policies or the daily lives of citizens, companies or social groups is inevitable. For example, what will be the future ways of articulating democracy and political participation? How will public administrations deliver public services? How can we avoid the emergence of digital divides between different social groups? What professions will be needed in the public and private sectors? What kind of education and training policies will be required?